Photo taken by Makeela Alexander

Below is a little history of the steelpan and how it makes us feel as proud Trinbagonians. It is based on the statue above which states it was a tribute to the Steelband Movement by the San Fernando Borough Council, 23rd of December, 1977. This portrayal of art and creativity has a story to be told and when one looks at this, they should instantly be able to know this story. Which is the fact that experimenting led to innovation... Read on and enjoy!

Mr. Steelpan...

What is that I hear? The beating of a beautiful instrument…

Filling the atmosphere with happiness, reminding us of the beautiful culture we have.

It’s only fair that we take time to appreciate the story behind the steelpan.

Imagine, this magnificent creation started in TnT…    

Carnival, the greatest show on Earth led to its innovation,

As experiments were done to find a new instrument for the celebrations,

The oil drum was seen as the perfect item and “Tadaaaa”…It evolved into an instrument.

And to add, Port of Spain, the great urban centre was its origin,

Yes! The destitute urban dwellings of the Capital…Who knew?

This goes to show that within the urban are not only grand developments,

But their is creativity, innovation, and great intelligence.

And it's a global phenomenon to associate steelpan with Jamaica,

But it started and continues to play throughout Trinidad and Tobago.

The steelband brings crowds of people of all walks of life together,

Especially around Carnival, where the place to be is Panorama.

Society becomes one, high class, low class, middle class, everyone unites...

Personally, the steelpan brings calmness, peace and joy,

It is one of the symbols of our culture and a symbol of self-expression.

Isn’t TnT sweet, “Ah man watch an oil drum and see music…”

According to David Rudder, “This is de land of… de land of oil and music!”

By: Regene Pope and Makeela Alexander

(Here's a link to experience the profound beauty of steelpan music and the joy it brings, just copy, paste and enjoy!: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4l9UUFoU9EU )